Trump Demands $5 Million From CNN For Debate Appearance

Donald Trump, who wants CNN to pay him $5 million to take part in the Dec. 15 Republican presidential debate, said Monday that he would give the money to wounded military members and veterans.

During a speech at a campaign event in Georgia, the leading contender for the GOP nomination pointed out that CNN enjoyed high ratings when he appeared at a debate the network sponsored in September. The Hill reported that each of the four Republican candidates’ debates has attracted a large television audience.

“How about I tell CNN, who doesn’t treat me properly ... I’m not gonna do the next debate, OK?” Trump asked his supporters at the rally. “I won’t do the debate unless they pay me $5 million, all of which goes to wounded warriors or goes to vets.”

Possibly referring to critics who might suggest he is trying to duck the debate, the billionaire declared: “The problem is, they’ll say, ‘Trump is chicken.’ One thing I’m not is chicken, OK?’”

The Hill noted that Trump and another Republican White House hopeful, Ben Carson, have called for changes in how networks conduct the debates. Several candidates have criticized the moderators’ questions.

Trump continues to lead national polls of GOP primary voters. Carson has been placing second in most of the surveys, with Sens. Marco Rubio of Florida and Ted Cruz of Texas close behind.